When to Trek Manaslu Circuit: Unveiling the Optimal time for Your Expedition
- Friday April 24, 2020
- 0
Trekking in Manaslu Region is reasonably the ideal way to acknowledge the magnificence of the Himalayas. Manaslu region is yet an unspoiled and unexplored part of Nepal. However, the number of trekkers has been increasing in recent years.
Due to its remarkable Himalayas view and the culture of the locals, this Manaslu Trekking is one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal and a great alternative to Annapurna Circuit trekking.
You can do the Manaslu Circuit trek at any time of the year. Every season offers a different perspective of the Manaslu Region. However, Spring and Autumn are the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek since these seasons offer moderate weather and a stable climate.
In addition to that, You can also do Manaslu trekking during winter and monsoon, but the trek will be far more challenging. However, you can avoid the Manaslu Trek Difficulty with proper preparation during these seasons.
As the best experience comes from the best time, we should need to permit them to make the best trekking at the best time for the best understanding. So, for those who want to know the best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit or if you can trek during the unusual months of January or July, read the following. It is detailed information on the condition of the Manaslu Circuit trek in different seasons.
Manaslu Trek in Spring Months: Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Trek in March
March is one of the best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit, as it is the beginning of the spring season. You can enjoy the colorful blooms of rhododendron in the lower Manaslu regions. During this time, the weather and temperature condition are perfect for trekking. The temperature is usually calm at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. It is neither too cold nor too hot. Days are stunning and warm, with clear blue skies and picturesque mountain views. Hence, this is one of the best seasons for the Manaslu Circuit trek.
Major Highlights
- Stable weather conditions.
- Cool temperatures, warm and bright days
- Blossoms of colorful rhododendrons.
Disadvantages
- Peak season, hence large crowds.
- Pre-booking is highly recommended.
Manaslu Trek in April
During April, blooms of the rhododendron are at their colorful best. Due to its stable weather conditions, You can see actual and inspiring mountain climbers in action during this month. April is one of the peak times to trek in the Manaslu Region. Hence, the trail and teahouses are mostly crowded with the region’s climbers, trekkers, and travelers.
Major Highlights
- Colorful blossoms of rhododendrons
- Stable weather conditions
Disadvantages
- Crowded trails
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Manaslu Trek in May
May is the end of the spring season. In May, you can experience the last blooms of the flowers on the hill. May is still a peak season, but it gets hotter in the lower regions. The temperature can get up to 20 degrees Celsius in the lower regions. However, the weather and temperature at higher altitudes are perfect. It’s the best time to plan your trip to the destination, elevated at higher altitudes, such as Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Base camp trek, etc.
During May, the days are bright and long. It may be tough to trek during the afternoon as it can get boiling. However, you can enjoy the trail with beautiful mountain views if you don’t mind the warm weather. The trails are also less crowded during May than in March and April.
Major Highlights
- Peaceful trails
- Last blooms of the rhododendron
Disadvantages
- Hot and sweaty days
- The trails in the lower regions are a bit dusty.
Manaslu Trek in Monsoon or Summer Months: Off-Season
Manaslu Trek in June
June is the start of the summer monsoon season in Nepal. Due to the rainfall, the temperature rises, making a tremendous straightforward walk in the morning. However, most people avoid trekking in the summer (monsoon) season due to the wet and slippery conditions of the trails. You can also find leeches and mosquitoes on the trails and in your tea houses. Although June is not the best time for Manaslu Circuit Trek, it can be a great month.
It is the beginning of the monsoon season; it doesn’t see as much rain. The rainfall is short and far between. You can also catch beautiful rainbows in the hills. You will sometime get clear blue skies and long, bright days. The trails are unpacked, and the teahouse is less crowded this season. This gives an intimate experience with the locals,s which is impossible during the peak seasons.
Major Highlights
- Clear and long days during the non-rainfall days
- The fewer crowd gives you an intimate experience with the locals.
Disadvantages
- Short bursts of rainfall
- Unpredictable cloudy and rainy days
- Wet and slippery trails
- An infestation of leeches and mosquitoes.
Manaslu Trek in July
The monsoon sits comfortably during July, and nature comes back to life. During this month, you can enjoy the lush and dense green forests and landscapes and experience streams, creeks, and waterfalls forming. However, you can face difficulties in trekking in July, such as landslides, unexpected road blockages, and flight delays. Some lodges and tea houses remain closed due to bad weather and a few trekkers.
Major Highlights
- Lush green forests, hillsides, and terrace farms
- Opportunity to spot some wildlife in the region
Disadvantages
- Chances of landslides, mudslides, and flight delays
- Constant pouring of rain
Manaslu Trek in August
During August, the monsoon is in full swing. You have limited choices for accommodation in the higher regions of the trek. Most of the tea houses are not open. Vegetables thrive in the lower regions of the trek due to the constant rainfall. You are in for a treat with various freshly cut, seasonal vegetables during meal times. You can enjoy the entire flow of waterfalls, streams, rivers, and lakes. If rain doesn’t bother you, August can be rewarding in many ways.
Major Highlights
- Very few trekkers/travelers on the trails
- Fresh, seasonal, and different vegetables during mealtimes
- Extra challenging and adventurous
Disadvantages
- Constant rainfall makes for wet and slippery trails.
Manaslu Trek in Autumn Months: Best Time for Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Trek in September
September commences the autumn season in Nepal. It is the shoulder month between the off-season of monsoon and the best season of Autumn. Since September is the end of the monsoon and the start of Autumn, you may experience occasional rainfall. The monsoon officially ends in mid-September, so you can enjoy cool temperatures and bright and clear days. The Manaslu trail begins to dry up with more stable weather conditions. Trekkers can embrace the treks with clear views of the varied landscape and temperate climate.
Major Highlights
- Two seasons in one
- Less crowd
Disadvantages
- You may face some rainfall if you are trekking in early September.
Manaslu Trek in October
October is the best time for Manaslu Trekking which is also the start of the Autumn season. It is the best season to trek in the entire Nepal. The weather condition is just perfect in the Upper regions of the trek. The temperatures range from 12 to 18 degrees Celsius. The climate becomes more stable; it is neither too warm nor cold. The day is bright and precise, offering crystal-clear views of the mountains and their landscape. That is why trekkers worldwide flood into the Manaslu Trekking during this year.
Major Highlights
- Perfect temperatures.
- Amazing views of beautiful mountains and landscapes.
Disadvantages
- A large number of crowds
- It would help if you pre-booked everything in advance.
Manaslu Trek in November
November is another excellent month to do treks in Nepal. November marks the end of the autumn season. Hence, the temperature during this time drops significantly. The temperatures start to cool, which is the driest month of the year. It will be much easier to trek on the dry trail.
The temperature drops to freezing at higher altitudes during the morning and night. I recommend you pack some warm gear for trekking the Manaslu Circuit in November. If you are an athlete and into marathons, cheer up! The annual Manaslu Trail Race/Marathon takes place in November.
Major Highlights
- Cool temperatures for a trek
- Clear skies and bright days.
- Opportunity to take part in the annual Manaslu Trail Race/Manaslu
Disadvantages
- Cold mornings and nights
- Large crowds during the first half of November
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Manaslu Trek in Winter Months: Off-Season
Manaslu Trek in December
December lies in the winter months in Nepal. It starts getting cold during December. The average temperatures are 8 degrees Celsius in the lower region and can get up to -8 degrees Celsius at higher altitudes. In December, the days are cool and bright. The weather offers clear weather with beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the mountains.
You can enjoy some of the breathtaking views of the pristine mountain.
The climate gets too cold during mid-December. So, the locals of Samdo village usually move downwards to Pokhara to avoid the cold. Hence, most of the teahouses and lodges are closed during this time.
However, if you want to experience the extreme adventure in the Manaslu trek with the majestic Himalayan views, prepare yourself with proper training and camping equipment. You will also see some villagers staying behind to look after the household and animals.
Major Highlights
- Best views of the mountain peaks, sunrises, sunsets
- Cool and bright days
Disadvantages
- Cold temperatures in the morning and night
- Few operational tea houses and lodges by mid-December
Manaslu Trek in January
January is the coldest month of the year in Nepal. The temperature is freezing, but the skies are mostly clear. The trails are mostly snow-covered; you may need crampons to cross the pass during January. During this time, the trekkers may face many challenges, such as winter storms, heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, etc. The temperature can go down to -16 Degrees Celsius in the higher regions.
Although cold and chilly, you can enjoy the trek with an enticing mountain view under clear skies. You can also witness frozen waterfalls, streams, lakes, and rivers. With very few trekkers this month, you can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the trails and the region. Many teahouses are closed, so a tent and sleeping bags are mandatory.
Major Highlights
- Clear views of snow-capped mountains
- Fewer crowds
- Witness the frozen waterfalls and rivers
Disadvantages
- Most tea houses close in the upper regions, so camping is the only viable option.
- Heavy snow
- Wet, slippery trails
Manaslu Trek in February
There is not much difference between the temperature in January and February. February is the end of the winter months. During Mid-February, the temperature gradually rises along with melting snow. Likewise, rhododendron and other forest blossoms grow, and most teahouse reopens for visitors. The higher regions may experience unpredictable weather. So, pack cold winter clothes and equipment like crampons for a safe and comfortable trekking experience.
Major Highlights
- Cool temperatures from mid-February
- Beginning blooms of the local flora like rhododendron
Disadvantages
- Wet and slippery trails due to the melting of snow.
- Uncertainty of weather and availability of tea houses.
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Conclusion
The Manaslu Trek, a stunning off-the-beaten-trail adventure in Nepal, offers trekkers a captivating experience with its majestic mountain vistas, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultural encounters. While this trek can be undertaken throughout the year with appropriate gear and preparation, the best time to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek is autumn and spring.
During the autumn months of September to November, the weather is generally stable, and the skies are clear, providing awe-inspiring views of the surrounding peaks, including Manaslu itself, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Additionally, the autumn season offers comfortable temperatures, allowing trekkers to enjoy the region’s splendor thoroughly.
Similarly, the spring season from March to May is another ideal period to undertake the Manaslu Circuit Trek. As winter ends, the hills and valleys come alive with blooming rhododendron forests, adding a vibrant touch to the picturesque landscape. The weather during spring is also pleasant and suitable for trekking, making it an excellent time to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of the area.
In conclusion, while the Manaslu Trek is accessible year-round, the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons offer the most delightful experience, ensuring trekkers can savor what this remarkable region offers. Proper gear, equipment, and preparation will enhance the journey, making it an unforgettable adventure for all explorers.
Furthermore, if you have any queries or questions regarding the Manaslu Trek, please get in touch with us or read our blog, “A Complete Guide to Manaslu Circuit Trek.”
